Learning Objectives

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to

  • review and become familiar with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics,
  • explore and apply frameworks for resolving ethical dilemmas that surface in practice,
  • examine in more detail the ethical challenges related to self-determination, informed consent, privileged communication, technology and social media, malpractice, and unethical behavior,
  • explore ways to address issues regarding unethical behavior and/or malpractice, and
  • understand the role that the professional use of self plays in social work practice.
The Council on Social Work Education Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (CSWE-EPAS) Competencies that are highlighted in more depth in this chapter are:
 
2.1.1 Identify as a professional social worker and conduct oneself accordingly.
2.1.2 Apply social work ethical principles to guide professional practice.
2.1.3 Apply critical thinking to inform and communicate professional judgments.